Camp Robinwood, pivotal in providing camping opportunities for Black Girl Scouts during segregation, has been commemorated with a historical marker.<\/p>\n
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas \u2014 Camp Robinwood in Montgomery County has received a historical marker from the Texas Historical Commission, recognizing the camp\u2019s role in expanding camping opportunities for Black Girl Scouts during segregation.<\/p>\n
Nearly 80 years after the camp opened in the late 1940s, a new marker now stands at the site honoring its history and impact.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis camp was opened in the 1940s in the days of segregation,\u201d said Mary Vitek, CEO of the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council. \u201cAfrican American girls didn\u2019t have a place to camp, so four amazing men got together and raised the funds to purchase this property. It was 200 acres of farmland.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to the Girl Scouts, Clarence Dupree, James Hudson Jemison, Carter Walker Wesley and Hobart T. Taylor Sr. donated the land to create a place where young girls could thrive regardless of race, creed or religion.<\/p>\n
Before Camp Robinwood opened, officials said the nearest integrated summer camp available to Black Girl Scouts was in Oklahoma.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was really the first time that camps were integrated, even before schools were integrated,\u201d Vitek said. \u201cSo it was a beautiful story and a beautiful rich part of our history.\u201d<\/p>\n
Over the years, the camp has undergone several upgrades, including the addition of a swimming pool and new cabins. More recent improvements have focused on adding climate-controlled facilities, allowing Girl Scouts to camp there year-round.<\/p>\n